In 2004 the ACT Government held a nation-wide competition for the design of an arboretum and gardens, as part of the recovery program following the 2003 bushfires.

The winning design by Landscape Architects Taylor Cullity Lethlean and Architects Tonkin Zulaikha Greer, proposed the 100 Forests/ 100 Gardens design concept, focusing on the establishment of forests of rare, threatened and symbolic trees from around the world.

David Lancashire Design has been engaged by the Chief Ministers Department and TCL as the Graphic Design partners for the project. Currently in its early stages, the range of design work so far undertaken is varied and includes the identity design, style guide, publication, temporary signage, wayfinding and interpretation design throughout the 250 hectare site.